Table 4. Barriers to biotechnology information transfer to non-academic stakeholders and possible solutions. |
Target group |
Barrier to reach them |
Means to overcome barrier |
Farmers and extension workers |
Inadequate simple, translatable materials, logistics; level of farmer literacy; inadequate farmer’s organizations; lack of GE products; inadequate extension services |
Use of local radio programs; training programs for farmers and extension workers; development of simple translatable IEC materials; study tours |
Politicians and opinion leaders |
Differing opinions on priorities for national development; lack of availability; inadequate awareness; inadequate lobbying |
Workshops; champions within parliament; regular information supply from competent authorities; development and implementation of relevant legislation |
Policy and decision makers |
Bureaucracy; unavailability; confidentiality principles in the services; not convinced about the technology |
Institutional networking; sensitization discussion fora; study tours; breakfast/luncheon meetings |
Media |
Too few well-informed science journalists; misconceptions; lack of interest; inadequate information supply from scientists; editorial policies influencing coverage and balance |
Workshops; training modules for science writers; media discourse; contact with editors and feature writers |
Regulators and environmentalists |
Bureaucracy; insufficient legislation; insufficient knowledge; misconceptions |
Training modules for regulators; study tours; regular supply of simple IEC materials |
Consumers and faith and culture leaders |
Inadequate information supply to media; misconceptions; faith and cultural concerns |
Radio/TV talk shows; information supply for the media; respected champions; simple IEC materials |
|
|